Brazos County commissioners received an update July 7 on the New World screwworm, an invasive parasitic fly that state and federal officials are working to keep from spreading deeper into Texas.

Entomologist Sonja Swiger said the pest primarily threatens livestock and wildlife but can also infest pets and, in rare cases, humans.

About the New World screwworm: Unlike common blowflies, Swiger said female screwworm flies lay eggs in open wounds on living warm-blooded animals. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae can cause severe damage that can become fatal if left untreated.

She said more than 31,000 cases have been reported in Mexico and officials are monitoring 28 active cases within 70 miles of the Texas border.

What’s being done: To help contain the spread, federal and state agencies are releasing sterile male flies that prevent reproduction. Swiger said more than 100 million sterile flies are currently produced each week, with releases taking place in Texas and Mexico.

A new production facility in South Texas is expected to open in April 2027.

The city of College Station has earned the highest credit rating possible from Moody’s Ratings, according to a July 9 news release from the city. The rating upgrades the city’s issuer and general obligation limited tax rating from Aa1 to Aaa.

What’s happening: The city said the upgrade applies to both the city’s existing debt and its upcoming $35.8 million in certificates of obligation.

Moody’s cited the city’s consistent budget performance as a key factor in the upgrade. Officials said the city's available general fund balance reached 89% of annual revenue in fiscal year 2024-25 and is projected to grow further with an estimated $2 million surplus in fiscal year 2025-26.

What residents should know: The higher rating is expected to reduce borrowing costs on future bond issuances, allowing more taxpayer dollars to go toward infrastructure projects, such as roads and public facilities.

College Station officials also said the designation signals financial stability to businesses and developers considering long-term investments in the city.

The city of Bryan unveiled the new "Star-Spangled Texas mural" in Historic Downtown to honor the district, the state of Texas and the country.

What’s new: The mural was selected for Downtown Bryan by voters in Texas Monthly and the Coca-Cola Southwest Beverage Star Spangled Texas Campaign for America 250.

It was designed and painted by Jeremy Thompson and Morgan Allen, and features recognizable Bryan and American iconography and red, white and blue.

The mural was unveiled to the public on July 1, just in time for the 250th celebration of the United States' independence. The unveiling was attended by residents and Bryan City Council member Paul Torres.

Check it out: The mural is located on what used to be the Texas Plant Connection building near downtown, facing East 22nd Street.

Residents are encouraged to visit and take photos of the mural honoring the city and state as a whole.

• Unveiled July 1
• 410 North Texas Avenue, Bryan

United Airlines will offer year-round nonstop service between George Bush Intercontinental Airport and Cartagena, Colombia, beginning Dec. 17, Houston Airport System officials announced via a June 30 news release.

The big picture: With service already available to Bogota and Medellin, Cartagena marks the third destination in Colombia from Houston. Per the release, the new service further strengthens Houston's role as a leading gateway to Latin America.

Quote of note: "Colombia has been an important part of United's Latin America network for more than 30 years, and our new service to Cartagena reflects our continued investment in the country and commitment to offering customers new and distinct travel experiences," said Patrick Quayle, senior vice president of Network Planning and Global Alliances for United Airlines, in a statement.

Check it out: Beginning Dec. 17, United will offer four weekly flights during the winter season between IAH and Cartagena, and tickets are now available.